Exhibition Takeaways from ASI Chicago 2024
Overview
Nearly 5,000 professionals attended ASI Chicago, the largest promotional products trade show in the Midwest, which took place Tuesday, July 23, through Thursday, July 25, at McCormick Place Convention Center. Overall attendance included companies from 47 states and 14 countries, including numerous members from the global promo community. The show attracted 466 exhibitors and drew 326 women-owned and 155 minority-owned companies.
Product Development
Excitement is the driving force behind a successful promotional product. Is the product so unique that no one else can claim it? Does your brand connect with your audience to create pride and engagement, making your audience proud to wear it? In her ASI Chicago keynote, sales and persuasion expert Carolyn Strauss, who sold over $160 million in merchandise on the Home Shopping Network, told the audience, “The number one thing that makes something irresistible is the energy and emotion behind it.”
Delivering the Unique Goods
Exhibitors understood the assignment. From upgraded existing products to never-before-seen ideas, the products hit the mark. We saw it all: interactive items like custom stick-on patches, charm awards, giant floating holiday ornaments, and decadent cheese advent calendars.
Brand Stories
The best exhibits shared their origin stories to generate emotion and engagement around their product lines. Speaking to company founders left us understanding why the product was developed and how it impacted recipients. We learned about multiple uses for various products, like the Holiball, which, when not used as an ornament, serves as a decorative accent when you switch out the top. We loved learning about Wabash Family Farms and their decadent array of popcorn gifts. They began as popcorn growers for commercial users and recognized a need for consumers to pop popcorn like the commercial poppers could, delivering consistent great taste. They patented the Original Whirley Pop Stovetop Popcorn Popper!
Sustainability
Consumers are turning to products that last longer, reduce the strain on the planet, are produced without harming the environment, and are often recyclable or made from recycled materials. We found a partner who offers all the above and gives back to the community. Outpatch creates easy-to-use sticker patches that can stick on anything. Each patch is embroidered from thread made from 100% recycled plastic. 2% of each sale benefits locally-led nonprofit groups and environmental efforts.
We met the team at Day Owl, a company working to become the most sustainable bag company. The production process starts with empowering waste collectors in dignified jobs to help clean up our planet and address systemic poverty. All their bags are made from recycled, landfill-bound materials.
Wrap Up
The ASI Show falls in July, which is the perfect time of year to think about holiday gifting. We can create something completely custom, delivered in time for an unforgettable seasonal gift. From design, to functionality and sustainability, we’ve got the creative team in place for you! Let’s put these takeaways to work and design that holiday gift today. Need options for other events? Let’s start a project today with Dryvve!